Public engagement funding

Effective public engagement is a key part of the MRC’s mission and all MRC-funded establishments are encouraged to dedicate resources to support this area of work.

MRC funding

MRC Public Engagement in Science Activities - Seed Fund

To encourage and support engagement with the public and other stakeholders, funds are available to enable MRC-funded scientists to pilot new activities and develop innovative engagements. Applications are typically for between a few hundred and five thousand pounds. To apply, please complete and return the MRC Public Engagement Seed Funding Application Form (DOCX, 57KB).

MRC Festival Establishment Award

This funding scheme is closed for this year.

All MRC-funded units, centres and institutes participating in the MRC Festival of Medical Research 2018 are entitled to an award of up to £1,500 to help cover activity costs.

To be eligible for the award, activities must meet the MRC Festival objectives and take place during the MRC Festival period of 14-24 June 2018. The activities should be MRC Festival branded and distinct from any other science festival.

Each establishment will be asked to submit a short post-activity evaluation report, including a rough breakdown of expenditure, which will help the MRC with its future planning and budgeting.

MRC Festival Open Award

This funding scheme is closed for this year.

The MRC Festival Open Award is available to all MRC-funded researchers and support staff, including individual MRC-grant holders, participating in the MRC Festival of Medical Research 2018.

To be eligible for the award, activities must meet the MRC Festival objectives and take place during the MRC Festival period of 14-24 June 2018. The activities should be MRC Festival branded and distinct from any other science festival.

Further public engagement funding

Public engagement as a pathway to impact

Researchers are encouraged to actively think about the pathways for realising the potential impact of their research within Research Council grant applications as part of their Pathways to impact. This can include public engagement activities which are project specific and could contribute to generating impact from the research proposed. Applicants can request resources for these activities.

Science & Technology Facilities Council (STFC)

Provides a range of funding support including small, local or 'pilot' projects promoting science in the STFC funded areas. Awards range from £500 to £10,000. Also available are large award grants of up to £100,000 for Public Engagement projects which have strong links with STFC's scientific research community.